.

Implants - Implant Complications

Dental implants are becoming a popular cosmetic alternative to traditional restorative dental prosthetics, such as dentures or bridges. Although dental implants are one of the most successful forms of dental restoration with success rates of over 95%, complications occasionally occur. Complications can occur early in the process and be the result of failure to attach to the jaw, or may occur later and be the result of poor dental care or failure to continue good dental maintenance.

Early Implant Failure

Dental implantation is completed in a three-stage process that involves surgery for each stage. While failure can happen at any stage in the process, failure or complications early in the process can be attributed to several factors. The first stage of dental implant is a procedure that allows the introduction of the posts or plate to which the implant will eventually be attached. During the months that follow this initial procedure, a processed called osseointegration occurs, which is the integration of the material with the bone. Failures in this early state are usually due to complications where the bone rejects the material and fails to integrate into the bone. On rare occasions, bacteria may be introduced to the implant site, resulting in infection.

Late Implant Failure

The primary reason for implant failure after the initial phases of implant are completed is poor dental hygiene and maintenance. While dental implants are not susceptible to cavities or other problems related to natural teeth, they still require care. Patients should brush their new teeth daily and include flossing in their daily dental care routine.

If a patient is a smoker or uses tobacco, the dentist will likely strongly suggest that the patient stop smoking because nicotine reduces oxygen flow to the jaw. Oxygen is needed for the implants to be integrated into the bone.

Other complications late in the implant process can be attributed to infection or contamination of the implant site. If the patient experiences pain, swelling or fever after the surgery, it is important to immediately notify the dentist, since dental infections are extremely serious and can quickly become life-threatening.

Continued Maintenance of Implants

Like most prosthetics, dental implants require ongoing maintenance to ensure their continued usability and the health of the patient. Along with regular dental care, like brushing and flossing, implants should be regularly examined by a dentist and cleaned by a dental hygienist . Occasionally, the implants may need mild repairs, particularly if they are temporary or removable implants.

Summary

While dental implants are very successful and popular as a cosmetic alternative to dentures or bridges, they still come with potential complications. Early in the prosthetic implant process, failure may be due to the device not properly being attached and integrated to the jaw, resulting in complications. Occasionally, patients may experience infection at the implant site, which should be reported to the doctor immediately. Ultimately, continuing to use good dental hygiene and maintenance will result in a healthy successful dental implant experience.